In an era when creativity and innovation are key to capturing audience attention, the traditional conference room is making way for more unconventional meeting spaces. Today, more than ever, event planners and organizers are seeking venues that offer the unique and memorable experiences attendees want. Enter casinos and sports venues. These entertainment hubs promise an unexpected twist, transforming meetings, receptions, and other events into high-energy affairs. Casinos and sports venues transcend the ordinary, offering an electrifying backdrop that ensures meetings are anything but boring. Get ready to ante up and elevate your event game with the perfect blend of business and entertainment, leaving attendees inspired and eager for more.
Talladega Superspeedway, Talladega, Ala.
Talladega Superspeedway, in Talladega, Ala., is renowned worldwide for high-speed racing action and an electrifying atmosphere. Housing a 2.66-mile tri-oval course, it is one of NASCAR’s most iconic venues, a recognition it earned not long after it opened in 1969.
Though best known for its two major races held each year, one in the spring and one in the fall, Talladega Superspeedway also offers unique and exciting settings for meetings and conferences any time of year—all within a convenient driving distance of Birmingham. The Garage Offices provide an intimate and ideal space for hosting smaller groups, such as board meetings, while the Media Center hosts seminars, workshops, and other classroom-style meetings. The 5,670-square-foot Drivers Meeting/1948 Room is a unique spot that can accommodate up to 600 people, indoors to be out of the weather. Another unique space is Big Bill’s, the centerpiece of the Talladega Garage Experience, which includes 35,000 square feet and can accommodate up to 1,300 attendees.
War Memorial Stadium, Little Rock, Ark.
Since it was constructed more than 70 years ago, War Memorial Stadium, in Little Rock, Ark., has been known for Arkansas football. Built in 1948, the stadium has undergone numerous renovations over the years, and currently holds approximately 54,120 on game-day Saturdays. The well-known venue also welcomes guests every day of the week, with multiple spaces for accommodating meetings and events.
The Lettermen’s Club is one of War Memorial Stadium’s largest spaces, with a maximum seating capacity of 300. Meetings, conferences, parties, and dinners are all easily hosted in the space, which can easily be configured based on need. For groups needing a little more space, the Press Box
Level 1: Club Level can host up to 349, while the Press Box Level 2: Suite Level accommodates 209 and includes five suites. Also available is the Recruit Room, ideal for smaller gatherings and conferences.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, Hollywood, Fla.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood boasts a unique blend of sophistication and rock ‘n’ roll flair. Located in Hollywood, Fla., the AAA Four Diamond property is a stunning destination with multiple housing options, including the world’s first Guitar Hotel, which houses 638 guest rooms and suites; the seven-story, 168-room Oasis Tower; and 465-room Hard Rock Hotel. What truly sets Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood apart is its combination of amenities, such as the Rock Spa & Salon, its 150,000-square-foot casino, Hard Rock Live entertainment venue, nightclub, six pools, The Shoppes at The Guitar Hotel retail center, and 16 unique dining and drinking options.
In addition to all of the features and amenities Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood offers, guests will enjoy an event hosted at the Hard Rock Event Center, which houses approximately 120,000 square feet of meeting space, including a 38,000-square-foot carpeted exhibition hall. The Hard Rock Event Center boasts 40 unique spaces, each flexible and ready to be configured to suit every group’s individual needs.
College Football Hall of Fame, Atlanta
Nestled in the heart of downtown Atlanta, the College Football Hall of Fame stands as a shrine to the legends of the sport, celebrating their remarkable achievements and contributions to the game. With immersive exhibits, interactive displays, and a treasure trove of memorabilia, the College Football Hall of Fame offers visitors an unparalleled journey through the history of collegiate football.
Beyond its role as a museum, the College Football Hall of Fame serves as an extraordinary venue for hosting legendary meetings and events. Groups seeking a distinctive and inspiring setting for gatherings can take advantage of the College Football Hall of Fame’s versatile event spaces. Whether a corporate conference, teambuilding retreat, or gala dinner, the venue offers a range of options to suit every occasion—from the iconic 45-yard indoor football field to the state-of-the-art theater and customizable meeting rooms. Adding to the intrigue are the customized experiences groups can enjoy while there, including guided tours with docents tailoring the experience to align with specific interests or themes.
Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington, Ky.
Kentucky has long maintained a rich equestrian heritage—it is known as the “Horse Capital of the World”—and perhaps nowhere illustrates that more than Kentucky Horse Park. Nestled in Lexington, Kentucky Horse Park is steeped in a tradition of horsemanship and breeding that spans generations.
Visitors to the park are greeted by a captivating blend of history, horsemanship, and natural beauty. Home to a diverse array of attractions, the park offers an immersive journey into the world of horses, including live shows, opportunities to ride, and the International Museum of the Horse, a comprehensive museum dedicated to the history of horses. From majestic thoroughbreds to spirited draft horses, visitors can witness firsthand the grace and power of these magnificent creatures.
Kentucky Horse Park also serves as a unique venue for meetings and events. With thousands of square feet of flexible event space, the park provides the perfect setting for gatherings of all types and sizes. Big Barn is a country-inspired space with rustic charm and a genuine horse-farm ambiance. Club Lounge brings more elegance to an event, such as a reception, with a glassed-in area overlooking the arena. Groups needing a larger space can choose from the 20,800-square-foot North Exhibit Hall and Rolex Tower, a unique space overlooking Rolex Stadium and ideal for more intimate events. Regardless of the preferred space or event type, event planners can harness the park’s natural beauty and storied heritage to create unforgettable experiences for their guests.
L’Auberge Casino Resort, Lake Charles, La.
L’Auberge Casino Resort is a prime destination located in Lake Charles, La., a property as unique as the Louisiana bayou (of which it provides incredible panoramic views). The world-class resort sets up an ideal stay with its wide range of amenities, starting with the 26-story hotel, boasting 1,000 guest rooms, suites, and villas. Beyond the lavish accommodations, guests can enjoy a 70,000-square-foot Vegas-style casino, Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course, resort pools, lazy river, multiple dining options, and even retail shops.
Beyond its reputation as a premier gaming destination and lavish retreat, L’Auberge ignites inspiration and sets the stage for extraordinary events. The property features more than 26,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, including a 14,140-square-foot ballroom that can be separated into six separate spaces, and the 10,000-square-foot Event Center Terrace. The flexible space is capable of hosting everything from small corporate retreats to major galas in a unique destination weaving the rich tapestry of Louisiana culture with modern sophistication.
Camden Yards Sports Complex, Baltimore
Camden Yards Sports Complex, located in the heart of downtown Baltimore, stands as a cornerstone of baseball history. As the home of Major League Baseball’s The Baltimore Orioles, this iconic stadium has witnessed countless memorable moments and legendary performances since its opening in 1992. Its picturesque setting, with views of the Baltimore skyline, adds to its allure and charm, making it a must-visit destination for baseball enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Beyond its role as a premier venue for America’s pastime, Camden Yards Sports Complex offers a versatile and dynamic space for hosting meetings and events. The 85-acre campus offers state-of-the-art facilities and expansive event spaces catering to a wide range of gatherings, with seating capacities ranging from intimate affairs to large-scale events. Venues include Oriole Park at Camden Yards, The Warehouse at Camden Yards, and M&T Bank Stadium, which sits on the south side of the campus and can host groups of up to
2,000 attendees.
Harrah’s Gulf Coast, Biloxi, Miss.
Entertainment and gaming meet top-notch facilities in Harrah’s Gulf Coast. Situated along the Mississippi Gulf Coast in Biloxi, Harrah’s Gulf Coast boasts a prime waterfront location and is an established magnet for those seeking a thrilling experience and taste of coastal luxury. The waterfront property features 500 guest rooms, a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, a spa and resort-style pool, and multiple dining options.
Harrah’s Gulf Coast offers the perfect mix of meeting and event space. With more than 3,800 square feet of versatile space, the gaming venue is ideally suited for hosting everything from conferences and corporate retreats to cocktail receptions and networking events. For a more traditional setting, consider Flavors Meeting Room; for an out-of-the-box setting, choose from Harrah’s Gulf Coast Pool Deck, The Great Lawn, and Mix & Mingle restaurant, featuring a circular dining room.
Busch Stadium, St. Louis
Located in the cultural center of St. Louis, Busch Stadium stands as an iconic symbol of baseball tradition. Home to Major League Baseball’s St. Louis Cardinals, this legendary ballpark provides spectators with breathtaking panoramas of the iconic Gateway Arch and the bustling cityscape, serving as a hallowed sanctuary for sports enthusiasts worldwide and vividly capturing the essence of the “Gateway to the West.”
Busch Stadium transcends its role as a mere sports venue. Its storied history and unparalleled atmosphere can be incorporated with gatherings of all sizes and styles, from intimate board meetings to large-scale conferences and corporate events. Boasting fabulous views of the field, Budweiser Terrace is an outdoor venue designed for hosting large-scale events. Just behind home plate sits the CommunityAmerica Cardinals Club, an elegant space accommodating 400 for a seated event or more than 500 for a cocktail reception. Other notable meeting spaces include the Conference Center, Cunningham Corner, and the Cardinals Clubhouse, where the team has celebrated 11 World Series championships and other victories. Planners can also arrange one-of-a-kind group experiences, such as brunch in the bullpen, cocktails on the warning track, dinner at home plate or on the diamond, and stadium tours.
Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, N.C.
Bank of America Stadium, in Charlotte, N.C., has long been known as a spot for incredible sports. As the home of the National Football League’s Carolina Panthers, the 74,867-seat stadium is also a dynamic setting for all sorts of meetings and events. Each year, Bank of America Stadium hosts 80 to 100 corporate and community events, ranging from general sessions, seated dinners, receptions, and galas.
Bank of America Stadium’s 10 unique event spaces can host 30 to 5,000 guests. Atrium Health Dome has a capacity of 1,500 and features 52,000 square feet of turf flooring. The Gallery Suites consists of 14 individual suites, ideal for breakouts or networking receptions. Panthers Den features floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views of the field. One of the newest spaces is The Vault, a versatile field-level space complete with a patio.
Bank of America Stadium Field provides an unforgettable setting for a seated dinner or reception. Adding to the ease and appeal of hosting an event at Bank of America Stadium is its location; situated in uptown Charlotte, Bank of America Stadium is just minutes from multiple hotels and the Charlotte Convention Center, making it very accessible for groups seeking a walkable experience.
WinStar World Casino and Resort, Thackerville, Okla.
WinStar World Casino and Resort, in Thackerville, Okla., seeks to offer a gaming experience like no other. Home to the largest collection of electronic and table games in the world, the property offers an unparalleled entertainment experience. There is much more beyond the gaming floors. WinStar World Casino and Resort includes four hotel towers with a combined 1,700 guest rooms, two championship 18-hole golf courses and a golf academy, a resort-style pool, a full-service spa, and dining options that please every palate.
Beyond the state-of-the-art gaming facilities and amenities, the resort offers versatile meeting and event spaces for groups to host gatherings in a dynamic and vibrant setting. WinStar Convention Center features 65,000 square feet of space, including the 15,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom, the 6,600-square-foot Junior Ballroom, and three executive boardrooms. Lucas Oil Live, WinStar’s onsite entertainment venue, also is available for private events.
Stable View, Aiken, S.C.
Stable View, in Aiken, S.C., is not just a farm; it is a multifaceted destination, offering a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. Its sprawling grounds amid rolling countryside provide a serene and picturesque setting for event planners seeking a unique backdrop.
What sets Stable View apart is its fusion of equestrian culture with versatile event spaces. Attendees can enjoy the ambiance of horse-filled pastures while immersing themselves in productive discussions or teambuilding activities. The property boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including indoor and outdoor meeting spaces, making it suitable for gatherings of varying sizes and purposes. A sought-after space is the 5,000-square-foot Pavilion, a three-story LEED Gold-certified facility that can seat more than 200 and offers panoramic views of the property.
Luckily for attendees, Stable View offers much more than just a meeting venue. Its diverse range of amenities—such as onsite lodging options, dining facilities, and recreational activities, including riding trails and sporting clay courses—ensures attendees will have a well-rounded experience. Whether a corporate retreat, conference, or teambuilding event, Stable View provides a unique and memorable setting for fostering collaboration, creativity, and connection.
Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, Knoxville, Tenn.
As the only facility of its kind dedicated solely to women’s basketball, the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, in Knoxville, Tenn., celebrates the rich history, achievements, and contributions of women in basketball, through interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and displays honoring legendary players, coaches, and other important contributors.
The Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame also makes a captivating destination for hosting a meeting or event. Its distinctive ambiance and iconic setting provide a memorable backdrop for gatherings. Groups can choose from a variety of event spaces, including Pat Summitt Rotunda, providing incredible panoramic views of downtown Knoxville; and Urban Playground, resembling an urban basketball court. For an extra layer of engagement and excitement, book the entire Hall of Fame facility, with exclusive access to museum exhibits and ball courts.
Fair Park, Dallas
Situated in the heart of Dallas, Fair Park is an iconic cultural and entertainment hub steeped in history and brimming with charm. The sprawling, 277-acre complex first opened in 1886 with the Dallas State Fair and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986. Throughout its 138-year history, Fair Park has become home to a great number of varied attractions, including museums, Art Deco architecture, lush green spaces, and year-round events celebrating the rich heritage of the Lone Star State.
One of Fair Park’s most well-known venues is Cotton Bowl Stadium, which opened in 1930 and hosts numerous sports events each year. The multipurpose Fair Park Coliseum recently completed a $14 million renovation, which brought new seating, lighting, sound system, and other upgrades. The coliseum features a 26,000-square-foot floor, ideal for hosting large meetings and events.
Groups can take advantage of Fair Park’s premium location near downtown Dallas and Fair Park Dart Station, offering visitors quick and easy access from the venue to the city.
Virginia Beach Sports Center, Virginia Beach, Va.
Virginia Beach Sports Center is a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Virginia Beach, Va. The city’s largest indoor sports complex features world-class competition venues and top-notch amenities for a wide range of athletic activities, from basketball to volleyball to track and field.
Beyond its prowess as a sports destination, Virginia Beach Sports Center also serves as a dynamic meeting and event venue, ideal for conferences, trade shows, and corporate gatherings. With 285,000 total square feet of multifunctional event space, including six meeting rooms, the sports center offers ample opportunities for networking, collaboration, and professional development. Groups interested in outdoor space can use the outdoor plaza at Virginia Beach Sports Center or explore options at the famous Virginia Beach Boardwalk,
less than a mile away.
Nationals Park, Washington, D.C.
Situated on the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood in southeast D.C., Nationals Park is the home of Major League Baseball’s Washington Nationals. The state-of-the-art ballpark is one of the largest venues in D.C., able to accommodate groups from 40 to 40,000.
Nationals Park boasts more than 55,000 square feet of space across 14 indoor venues, including Nationals’ Clubhouse, the team’s “hallowed home,” suitable for hosting receptions, happy hours, or special presentations. Nationals Park also includes 250,000 square feet throughout eight outdoor spaces, including such iconic spots as the bullpen, track, dugouts, concourses, and the field itself—all of which can be used for private events on non-game days.
For a truly memorable experience, planners can add a round of batting practice in the Nationals’ batting cages and behind-the-scenes tours of areas typically off-limits to visitors.
The Casino Club at The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs, W. Va.
Perched amid scenic landscapes, The Greenbrier, in White Sulphur Springs, W. Va., stands as an iconic destination and National Historic Landmark renowned for its elegance, sophistication, and storied history. Since its inception in 1778, the 710-room resort has epitomized luxury and exclusivity, attracting dignitaries, celebrities, and discerning travelers from around the world.
The Casino Club—which opened in 2010 and is often referred to as the country’s only private casino—adds another layer of allure and excitement to the guest experience. The Casino Club offers 103,000 square feet of timeless charm and opulent ambiance. Featuring more than 30 table games and 160 slot machines, The Casino Club transports guests to a bygone era of glamour and indulgence.
Beyond its role as a premier gaming destination, The Casino Club at The Greenbrier also serves as a unique venue for meetings and events. Its restaurants and lounges—42 Below, Casino Royale, and 12 Oaks—are ideal for cocktail parties. In addition to the casino restaurants and lounges, The Greenbrier features more than 200,000 square feet of meeting space.
